Osteoporosis (bone loss) is the main disease that comes from not getting enough calcium. Lack of calcium also may be linked with bone pain and spinal problems. Low levels can also cause muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, and depression.

Usually healthy people get enough carnitine because the body makes all it needs. But sometimes you can have low levels of carnitine. Being deficient in carnitine can cause muscle aches, fatigue, confusion, and heart problems.

It's rare to have low levels of copper. Signs and symptoms of low levels of copper over a long period of time include anemia, changes in the structure and appearance of hair, heart damage, slow growth, problems with bone formation, osteoporosis (bone loss), and emphysema (lung disease).

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Niacin plays a key role in the body's metabolism, and low levels can lead to problems with the skin, digestive system, and nervous system. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach problems, depression, and vomiting. Severe deficiency can cause pellagra, a disease that can be life-threatening if not treated. Symptoms of pellagra include inflammation of the skin, depression, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Not getting enough selenium over a period of time may make you more susceptible to developing other conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, or liver disease. Low levels of selenium may be linked to problems with the muscles, heart, and digestive system.

The information presented here covers some of the nutrients that may be lowered when you take certain medications. The signs and symptoms listed can be caused by other conditions. So if you have these signs and symptoms, it doesn't always mean you have low levels of these nutrients. Many things affect the level of nutrients, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as how long you have been taking the medication. Please talk with your health care provider. He or she can best address your health care needs and see if you are at risk for low levels of any nutrients.